Prayer Rug

DateSecond half of 18th century

MediumWool

DimensionsOverall (H x W): 78 1/2 x 54 1/2in. (199.4 x 138.4cm)

Credit LineGift of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

Object number1979-216

DescriptionThe mihrab of this prayer rug is filled with a dark blue ground and is edged in “cemetery” motifs (which are upside down) of trees and tombs in yellow, blue, black, and red. In the center of the mihrab is a tall, stylized plant, which may be related to lamp imagery, which is common in prayer rugs. Above the mihrab is a ground of small, abstract geometric patterns in red, yellow, and blue. A rectangular insert above the geometric ground shows five abstract flowers. The inner motif of the rug is surrounded by a light blue border with dots on the sides and bottom and flowers around the insert. That border is surrounded by a thin dark blue border with light flowers. Surrounding that is a yellow ground border with red, blue, and yellow flowers. The thin dark border is repeated. The widest border features spiky leaves and poppies in alternating colors, yellow, black, and red two to a stem. Again, the thin dark border is repeated. Another border with a yellow ground in light flowers surrounds that, with a final repetition of the thin dark border with light flowers. The top and bottom have warp fringe, and the knots average 95 per inch.

American Art Association’s description: Sapphire blue field, with recurrent “cemetery” design, reversed, of clusters of cypresses and tombs, the frieze of the low pointed arch trellised with leaves in a yellow ground; ivory border of short stems of poppies and serrated leaves in colors.
Label TextThe central panel of this prayer rug is in the shape of a mihrab, or the niche in mosques that orients toward Mecca so worshipers can face Mecca while they pray. Similar in use, the mihrabs on prayer rugs would be pointed toward Mecca when used for prayer. The shape of the mihrabs in prayer rugs is often indicative of their place of origin.
InscribedNo marks or inscriptions.
ProvenanceOwned by Charles Richardson, Boston, Massachusetts;
Purchased by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller for use in Bassett Hall, 1932;
Given to CWF, 1979.

MAKER HISTORY:
As of 1920, both Kula’s and Ghiordes’ main industry was rug making.